Ahmed made history as the first student to complete all three of Calbright’s technology programs: IT Support, Cybersecurity, and Network Technology. Reflecting on his experience, he said, “It was fun!” Initially, he hadn’t planned to pursue all the technology programs, but after completing the IT program, he felt inspired to continue with Cybersecurity, and then Network Technology.
His decision to switch careers came after significant changes in his life. After 16 years as a processing officer at a major bank, Ahmed faced the possibility of layoffs as the company moved branches out of state. “They said we’re going to let you guys go unless you move to another state,” he recalled. Living in San Diego with his wife and three daughters, he didn’t want to relocate.
“I’m trying to navigate things from here,” Ahmed explained. He’s seeking a new career that aligns with his interests. “I don’t want to jump into a job and discover that I don’t want it, so I’m taking my time, getting my education, and finding what’s right for me.”
While considering a future in technology, particularly cybersecurity, Ahmed is also planning to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering by 2025. He’s volunteering with the San Diego Police Department as a community liaison and is exploring the possibility of a job there, but he wants to ensure it’s the right fit.
Ahmed’s journey at Calbright began as an exploration of technology, despite having no prior background. “I was always the guy at the office who liked to help with connection and printer problems,” he shared. A friend suggested Calbright, and with the added incentive of free education, he jumped in.
Completing the IT Support program took him about six months, and he was impressed by Calbright’s unique approach to education. “I thought it would be a regular college experience with strict deadlines and schedules, but it was totally different! You do the work when you can, and counselors reach out if you start to fall behind.”
He enjoyed the Cybersecurity program so much that he finished it in just three months. “The labs were totally different, but they built on what I had already studied. I had a good time!” The Network Technology program proved to be the most challenging, taking nearly a year to complete. “It was structured differently and required completing courses in order,” he explained, noting that it was designed for a Cisco certification compared to the other two programs.
Despite the challenges, Ahmed felt well-supported throughout his studies. “I still got lots of help from instructors. Any time I reached out, someone was there to support me.”
Currently, Ahmed volunteers as a computer consultant at a San Diego non-profit to assess whether a career in technology is right for him. He also serves as a peer tutor at Calbright, helping fellow students navigate their technology courses.
His advice for prospective students? “It’s a good place to go! When I started, I didn’t have a clue how this was going to end up. Try it out! Explore the parts of technology you’re interested in. There’s no downside; it’s free. Just keep going, one thing at a time!”
